updated 09:20 am EDT, Fri June 1, 2007

Samsung A717 and A727

AT&T today launched two phones from Samsung that take full advantage of the carrier's faster 3G network. The A727 (pictured) is AT&T's slimmest-ever 3G phone at 0.35 inches thick but still achieves the real-world 400 to 700Kbps download speeds possible through HSDPA service. The extra speed also lets it tap into AT&T's more advanced services, such as Mobile Music for streaming online radio and Video Share for streaming one-way video to or from other equipped phones using its 1.3-megapixel camera. Stereo Bluetooth audio and a microSD slot also find room within the handset.

Expectedly, A717 is a clamshell equivalent which is only somewhat thicker at 0.51 inches but trades the added bulk for a much more flexible 2-megapixel camera. Like the LG CU500v before it, the A717 can swivel its camera towards the caller for Video Share service or towards the back for regular still shots and video. All its other features are virtually identical to the candybar A727.

Regardless of form factor, both devices will go on sale through AT&T's newly rechristened website and in retail stores in the near future. The A717 debuts first on June 4th for $150 with a two-year contract and a rebate; the A727's release is yet to be determined but will trim the price down to $100 with the same service terms.